Forget a pretty face or hot body: Survey Reveals Surprising Results About What Makes You Irresistible
Plus: The impact of low self-esteem on relationships

NEW YORK, July 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- A survey by YourTango.com—the digital leader in love and relationships—reveals that physical traits are not what matters most when it comes to attractiveness. Rather, men and women agree that "sense of humor" and "self-confidence" are the two most irresistible traits in a potential love interest.

The survey also exposes a powerful link between self-esteem and relationship satisfaction; 89% of respondents agree that when one or both partners in a couple has poor self-confidence, relationship problems ensue.

Conversely, 90% of respondents agree that feeling attractive and confident has a profound influence on their coupled bliss. Fortunately the survey reveals top activities that improve self-confidence.

Both genders agree "exercise and eating right" is the #1 means to feeling "irresistible." For men, "having sex" comes in at #2 and "spending quality time with your significant other" at #3. For women, "buying a new outfit/accessories" is #2; "spending quality time" is #3.

Women list their "weight/fitness level" as the factor that most influences their self-esteem, with "the state of my relationship" second and "feeling balanced/spiritually connected" third.

"Conventional wisdom holds that attraction typically begins with physical appearances. We were thrilled to learn that what's on the inside is what matters most to both men and women," says YourTango CEO, Andrea Miller.

Additional findings:

Perfume/fragrance is the beauty product that makes women feel the most irresistible, followed by mascara then eyeliner/eye shadow.

66% of respondents say "compliments/affirmations" and "giving him/her your undivided attention" are the best ways to instill confidence in one's partner.

Both genders agree that the #1 way to avoid complacency in a relationship is trying new things together. #2 for men is having sex regularly. #2 for women is small gestures such as writing love notes or doing the other's chores.

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